A Deeper Look
Monday, April 16, 2012 at 3:02AM Athletes in extreme sports seem to have a simple concept: they like to tempt fate, stare death in the eyes, and claim bragging rights for doing what others don’t possess the courage to do. To me, there’s a little more to it. For me, these sports are all about exploration. The sports I have discussed seem far-fetched, and others would think I couldn’t do most of these.
What about skydiving or BASE jumping? Yes, I do have a fear of heights, and it is unlikely that I’ll ever try this extreme sport. But it’s fascinating to me anyways, and for those exact reasons. Doing what one fears the most is a great testament of will. Also, I like to imagine the feeling; to travel as fast as naturally possible (terminal velocity) without being attached to anything, until the parachute deploys, that is. This man likes to meditate while diving. Incredible, isn’t it?
I’ve checked into tamer sports as well, namely Downhill Mountain biking and wall-climbing. These sports are understandably more familiar to me and to many readers as well. In both mountain biking and wall-climbing, I can set my own pace and challenge myself in other ways. This is more like a puzzle to me; rather than travelling from A to B as fast as possible, I can think about what the safest route is. These sports are much more relaxing, and let me enjoy nature. It’s like a walk in the park, only much more interesting. Besides, pulling myself onto the top of a mountain and enjoy the view is very rewarding.
Extreme ironing and professional pillow-fighting seem absolutely absurd, what is there to learn from these? Above all, this is a challenge of creativity. Just when I thought I’d heard of every sport, a little research shows that many people in the world are finding news ways to have fun, enjoy nature, and work as a team. It gives a positive outlook on life. With some creative thinking, even mundane house chores can be exciting.
Everything I have studied on this blog has followed a theme: exploration. It’s about exploring what’s around you, and what’s in you. There’s an amazing world out there, and I want to see every inch of it. When I think about all the different creatures, plants, lands, and machines out there, I find it impossible to sit still in my chair. The world is too cool!
“If you could be in any place right now, or do one thing, what would it be?” I think about this all the time, and it’s a good question, too. Next time you find yourself with some spare time, perhaps this summer, ask yourself this question, and then go through with it. It’ll give you a cool story to tell later on. Me? I’d be in Australia, diving into the Great Barrier Reef. As soon as I can afford it, I’ll do it.